Hazel (Sterling) Sensibaugh, age 81, passed away peacefully on April 8, 2026, at Knox Community Hospital, surrounded by her family. She was born on October 6, 1944, to Albert L. “Bill” and Hazel C. (Trout) Sterling. She was a proud graduate of Frazeysburg High School.
Hazel was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and sister. She shared 63 loving years of marriage with her husband, Russell Sensibaugh, building a life centered on family, care, and enduring commitment. Together, they made their home on the family farm in Utica, Ohio, where Hazel was not only a loving partner but also an essential part of the farm’s daily operation, faithfully managing the books and helping ensure its success.
Throughout her life, Hazel held a variety of jobs. She played a role in opening many K-Mart stores across Ohio and also worked for Velvet Ice Cream and Park National Bank. Despite her work outside the home, her most important roles were as a partner alongside her husband and as the heart of her family.
Hazel took great pride in her home, always keeping it neat, welcoming, and well cared for. She loved hosting family and friends, especially when it came to cooking and preparing holiday meals that brought everyone together. She also enjoyed the thrill of finding a good bargain, often spending time searching for antiques on Facebook Marketplace—something she took both joy and pride in.
She is survived by her husband, Russell; her daughters, Marla Sensibaugh and Lee Ann (Tim) Joseph; and her cherished grandchildren, Brad (Stacey) Atherton, Derek Atherton, Kyle (Michele Finkes) Atherton, Nick (Jenae) Joseph, and Alex (Lexi) Joseph. Hazel also leaves behind 14 great-grandchildren who brought her immense joy. She is further survived by her siblings: sisters Joy Burchett and Cathy (Mike) Evans; brothers Bill (Kathy) Sterling and Fred (Linda) Sterling; and sister-in-law, Betty Sterling.
Hazel was preceded in death by her parents; her sister, Pat Bernier; her brothers, Larry Sterling and Jay Sterling; and sister-in-law, G. Sue Sensibaugh.
Hazel will be remembered for her deep love of family, her strong work ethic, and the warmth she brought to those around her. Her legacy lives on in the generations she nurtured and the many lives she touched.
The family will receive friends from 4-7pm on Sunday, April 12, 2026 at Brucker-Baker Funeral Home, 34 N. Main St., Utica and one hour prior to the funeral service at 11am on Monday at the funeral home with Rev. Gladys Davis officiating. Burial will follow at Fairview Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Hazel’s memory to Utica FFA, with checks made payable to North Fork Local Schools, Attn: Caleb Hickman, 260 N. Jefferson St., Utica, OH 43080.
To sign an online guestbook, please visit www.law-bakerfuneralhome.com.
Funeral Home: Brucker-Baker
Website: www.law-bakerfuneralhome.com